Another dismal display at Celtic Park could see Rangers boss Philippe Clement turning to the free agent market as he desperately looks to address his side’s alarming early slide.
Already five points behind their rivals, the Gers’ summer rebuild made little difference to their Old Firm fortunes as the Hoops ran out comfortably 3-0 winners thanks to goals from Daizen Maeda, Kyoro Furuhashi and Callum McGregor and the Belgian boss admitting his may well scour the free agent market in a bid to strengthen his squad.
Clement has been searching for a striker to rival Cyriel Dessers as the club’s number nine for some months now, while Ridvan Yilmaz’s injury has left the Ibrox club light in the full-back areas, so the need for further strengthening is evident.
But which available players could aid the Light Blues in the long - and short - term? Here are 13 free agent players Rangers could target this month.
9. John Fleck - Midfielder
He's already worn the royal blue of Rangers earlier in his career and has reportedly been training at Auchenhowie since leaving Blackburn Rovers at the end of last season. A quality player on his day, he played a huge part in Sheffield United's back-to-back promotions a few seasons back and would give Philippe Clement's young Rangers midfield the discipline and experience they lack at present. | Getty Images Photo: Getty Images
10. Patrick van Aanholt - Left-back
At 34, Dutch defender van Aanholt definitely isn't a long-term solution, but he can offer Rangers experience in a position they are lacking. He wouldn't be the number one choice for a free agent left-back, but the former Sunderland and Crystal Palace ace is another defender who may be worth a punt on a short-term deal. | NICOLAS TUCAT Photo: NICOLAS TUCAT
11. Nathan Ferguson - Defender
Just 23, Ferguson departed Crystal Palace after eight years with the club in order to play regular first team football this summer. Playing for England at various youth levels, Ferguson was a high potential player in his youth, but struggled to break into the Eagles first team as he battled with injuries. Enjoyed a positive loan spell with West Bromwich Albion in the EFL Championship as a teenager. While Rangers are well stocked at centre-back, if Ferguson could prove his fitness and reach his potential, then he's well worth a punt. Rangers wouldn't lose much if it didn't work out either. | Getty Images
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12. Dele Alli - Attacking midfielder
He's barely played over the last two seasons, and desperately needs to kick-start his career. He's a big name, but Ibrox has welcomed bigger names and turned them into terrace heroes. On form and happy, he has the ability to he one of the best midfielders in the country. Could Rangers help resurrect his career - and could he resurrect them in return? It would be risk, but not a huge one on a free transfer. | Getty Images Photo: Getty Images